Communication occurs only when the listener understands what the speaker means and vice versa. To create this true communication…
It’s easy to think you understand the other person and conclude “we’re on the same page.” You might be on the same page but in the wrong book! Reflect back on what the speaker says so s/he can clarify and maybe expand on what was said. Then, if there’s any chance you might have missed a nuance, put it in your own words, too. A couple of minutes spent clarifying, especially with regards to decision and deliverables, could save you hours is misunderstandings and/or work focused in the wrong direction.
(This eTip brought to you by the Task/Project Management link in your Productivity Chain.)